About me!
Tidepooling in Santa Cruz!
Snorkelling during Study Abroad in Mo'orea French Polynesia!
Go Bears!
Hi, I’m Malia! :)
I’m an undergraduate at the University of California, Berkeley, studying Marine Science and Integrative Biology. Through my work at UC Berkeley and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, I’ve had the opportunity to research a variety of biological specimens and explore questions surrounding marine biodiversity. My work brings together molecular techniques, biodiversity research, and scientific illustration to better understand marine organisms, associated microbes, and their ecological relationships.
Alongside my research, I work as a scientific illustrator at UC Berkeley and as a freelance artist. I love creating artwork that brings scientific ideas to life, makes complex processes easier to understand, and captures the natural world around us. I have always loved drawing and painting, so coupled with my scientific background, scientific illustration allows me to use all of my skill sets in a way that makes science more accessible and digestible for everyone!
Outside of research and illustration I’m a member of UC Berkeley’s marching band, Cal Band, and currently serve as the head. I also love spending time with my housemates and friends, making art, sewing, and watching movies. My favorite movie is Boogey Nights!
For research opportunities and illustration inquiries: